New 2018 Kia Picanto X-Line: plush X-Line S trim added

Taller riding Kia city car now available in two flavours; X-Line and X-Line S

Kia has revealed it will add a new, higher spec 'S' version of the new Picanto X-Line crossover city car to the UK line-up.

Much like how the GT-Line S version builds on the regular GT-Line Picanto, a little extra standard equipment separates the X-Line and X-Line S models. Chrome doorhandles are fitted, as is an electric sunroof. Inside, you'll find automatic climate control, a seven-inch touchscreen infotainment system with sat nav, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, plus heated front seats and a heated steering wheel equipped. Prices have not yet been revealed.

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The Picanto X-Line's crossover credentials are fleshed out by chunky looking black plastic cladding, faux bash plates underneath the front and rear bumpers, plus a raised ride height – with a ground clearance of 156m, it rides 15mm taller than standard versions of the Picanto.

The Picanto X-Line gets a 1.25-litre four-cylinder petrol unit under the bonnet, producing 83bhp and 122Nm of torque. The engine is mated to a five-speed manual gearbox, but for an extra £650 (£13,245 in total), customers can opt for a four-speed automatic.

It manages claimed economy of 61.4mpg with emissions of 106g/km CO2. The automatic Picanto X-Line is slightly thirstier producing 52.3mpg and 124g/km. It’s fitted as standard with torque vectoring and autonomous emergency braking, which kicks in where needed at speeds of up to 50mph.

Do you like the sound of the Kia Picanto X-Line? Tell us your thoughts in the comments.